DANGER : This cutting machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects . Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death . â¢ Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely _ , WARNING : In order to prevent acciden - necessary . Always look down and behind tal starting when setting up , transporting , before and while backing . adjusting or making repairs , always discon - â¢ Never direct discharged material toward nect spark plug wire and place wire where anyone . Avoid discharging material it cannot contact spark plug . against a wall or obstruction . Material may , _ I _ WARNING : Do not coast down a hill in ricochet back toward the operator . Stop the neutral , you may lose control of the tractor . blades when crossing gravel surfaces . _ , WARNING : Tow only the attachments â¢ Do not operate machine withoutthe entire that are recommended by and comply with grass catcher , discharge guard , or other specifications of the manufacturer of your safety devices in place and working . tractor . Use common sense when towing . â¢ Slow down before turning . Operate only at the lowest possible speed â¢ Never leave a running machine unat - when on a slope . Too heavy of a load , while tended . Always turn off blades , set park - on a slope , is dangerous . Tires can lose ing brake , stop engine , and remove keys traction with the ground and cause you to before dismounting . lose control of your tractor . â¢ Disengage blades when not mowing . Shut off engine and wait for all parts to come _ IbWARNING : Engine exhaust , some of its to a complete stop before cleaning the constituents , and certain vehicle components contain or emit chemicals known tothe State machine , removing the grass catcher , or of California to cause cancer and birth defects unclogging the discharge guard . â¢ Operate machine only in daylight or good or other reproductive harm . artificial light . _ IbWARNING : Battery posts , terminals and â¢ Do not operate the machine while under related accessories contain lead and lead the influence of alcohol or drugs . compounds , chemicals known tothe State of â¢ Watch for traffic when operating near or California to cause cancer and birth defects crossing roadways . or other reproductive harm . Wash hands â¢ Use extra care when loading or unloading after handling . the machine into a trailer or truck . â¢ Always wear eye protection when operat - ing machine . I . GENERAL OPERATION â¢ Data indicates that operators , age 60 â¢ Read , understand , and follow all instruc - years and above , are involved in a large tions on the machine and in the manual percentage of riding mower - related inju - before starting . ries . These operators should evaluate â¢ Do not put hands or feet near rotating their ability to operate the riding mower parts or under the machine . Keep clear safely enough to protect themselves and of the discharge opening at all times . others from serious injury . â¢ Only allow responsible adults , who are â¢ Follow the manufacturer's recommen - familiar with the instructions , to operate dation for wheel weights or counter - the machine . weights . â¢ Clear the area of objects such as rocks , â¢ Keep machine free of grass , leaves or toys , wire , etc . , which could be picked up other debris build - up which can touch hot and thrown by the blades . exhaust / engine parts and burn . Do not â¢ Be sure the area is clear of bystanders allow the mower deck to plow leaves or before operating . Stop machine ifanyone other debris which can cause build - up to enters the area . occur . Clean any oil or fuel spillage before â¢ Never carry passengers . operating or storing the machine . Allow machine to cool before storage . 3 Page: 4

li . SLOPE OPERATION â¢ Before and while backing , look behind and down for small children . Slopes are a major factor related to loss of â¢ Never carry children , even with the blades control and tip - over accidents , which can shut off . They may fall off and be seriously result in severe injury or death . Operation injured or interfere with safe machine on all slopes requires extra caution . If you operation . Children who have been given cannot back up the slope or if you feel uneasy rides in the past may suddenly appear in on it , do not mow it . the mowing area for another ride and be run â¢ Mow up and down slopes , not across . over or backed over by the machine . â¢ Watch for holes , ruts , bumps , rocks , or â¢ Never allow children to operate the ma - other hidden objects . Uneven terrain could chine . overturn the machine . Tall grass can hide â¢ Use extra care when approaching blind obstacles . corners , shrubs , trees , or other objects â¢ Choose a low ground speed so that you that may block your view of a child . will not have to stop or shift while on the slope . IV . TOWING â¢ Do not mow on wet grass . Tires may lose â¢ Tow only with a machine that has a hitch traction . designed for towing . Do not attach towed Always keep the machine in gear when equipment except at the hitch point . going down slopes . Do not shift to neutral â¢ Follow the manufacturer's recommenda - and coast downhill . tion for weight limits for towed equipment â¢ Avoid starting , stopping , or turning on a and towing on slopes . slope . Ifthetires Iosetraction , disengage â¢ Never allow children or others in or on the blades and proceed slowly straight towed equipment . down the slope . â¢ On slopes , the weight ofthe towed equip - â¢ Keep all movement on the slopes slow and ment may cause loss of traction and loss gradual . Do not make sudden changes of control . in speed or direction , which could cause â¢ Travel slowly and allow extra distance to the machine to roll over . stop . â¢ Use extra care while operating machine V . SERVICE with grass catchers or other attachments ; they can affect the stability of the machine . SAFE HANDLING OF GASOLINE Do no use on steep slopes . To avoid personal injury or property dam - â¢ Do not try to stabilize the machine by age , use extreme care in handling gasoline . putting your foot on the ground . Gasoline is extremely flammable and the â¢ Do not mow near drop - offs , ditches , or vapors are explosive . embankments . The machine could sud - â¢ Extinguish all cigarettes , cigars , pipes , denly roll over if a wheel is over the edge and other sources of ignition . or if the edge caves in . â¢ Use only approved gasoline container . Iii . CHILDREN â¢ Never remove gas cap or add fuel with the engine running . Allow engine to cool Tragic accidents can occur if the operator before refueling . is not alert to the presence of children . â¢ Never fuel the machine indoors . Children are often attracted to the machine â¢ Never store the machine orfuel container and the mowing activity . Never assume where there is an open flame , spark , or that children will remain where you last pilot light such as on a water heater or saw them . other appliances . â¢ Keep children out ofthe mowing area and â¢ Never fill containers inside a vehicle or in the watchful care of a responsible adult on a truck or trailer bed with plastic liner . other than the operator . Always place containers on the ground â¢ Be alert and turn machine off if a child away from your vehicle when filling . enters the area . 4 Page: 5

â¢ Keep machine free of grass , leaves , or â¢ Removegas - powered equipmentfromthe other debris build - up . Clean oil or fuel spill - truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground . age and remove any fuel - soaked debris . If this is not possible , then refuel such Allow machine to cool before storing . equipment with a portable container , rather â¢ If you strike a foreign object , stop and than from a gasoline dispenser nozzle . inspect the machine . Repair , if necessary , â¢ Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim before restarting . of the fuel tank or container opening at â¢ Never make any adjustments or repairs all times until fueling is complete . Do not with the engine running . use a nozzle lock - open device . â¢ Check grass catcher components and the â¢ Iffuel is spilled on clothing , change clothing discharge guard frequently and replace immediately . with manufacturer's recommended parts , â¢ Never overfill fuel tank . Replace gas cap when necessary . and tighten securely . â¢ Mower blades are sharp . Wrap the blade GENERALSERVICE or wear gloves , and use extra caution when â¢ Never operate machine in a closed area . servicing them . â¢ Keep all nuts and bolts tight to be sure the â¢ Check brake operation frequently . Adjust equipment is in safe working condition . and service as required . â¢ Never tamper with safety devices . Check â¢ Maintain or replace safety and instruction their proper operation regularly . labels , as necessary . â¢ Be alert and turn machine off if a child â¢ Be sure the area is clear of bystanders enters the area . before operating . Stop machine if anyone enters the area . â¢ Before and while backing , look behind and down for small children . â¢ Never carry passengers . â¢ Mow up and down slopes ( 15 Â° Max ) , not â¢ Do not mow in reverse unless absolutely across . necessary . Always look down and behind â¢ Choose a low ground speed so that you will before and while backing . not have to stop or shift while on the slope . â¢ Never carry children , even with the blades â¢ Avoid starting , stopping , or turning on a shut off . They may fall off and be seriously slope . Ifthe tires lose traction , disengage injured or interfere with safe machine the blades and proceed slowly straight operation . Children who have been given down the slope . rides in the past may suddenly appear in â¢ If machine stops while going uphill , disen - the mowing area for another ride and be gage blades , shift into reverse and back run over or backed over by the machine . down slowly . â¢ Keep children out ofthe mowing area and â¢ Do not turn on slopes unless necessary , in the watchful care of a responsible adult and then , turn slowly and gradually down - other than the operator . hill , if possible . 5 Page: 6

PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS In the state of California the above is required by law ( Section 4442 of the California Public Gasoline Capacity 1.25 Unleaded Resources Code ) . Other states may have and Type : Regular similar laws . Federal laws apply on federal Oil Type SAE 30 ( above 32 Â° F ) lands . A spark arrester for the muffler is API - SG - SL ) : SAE 5W - 30 ( below 32 Â° F available through your nearest Sears service Oil Capacity : W / Filter 56 oz . center ( See REPAIR PARTS manual ) . W / O Filter 48 oz . Spark Plug : Champion RC12YC REPAIR PROTECTION ( Gap : . 030 " ) AGREEMENTS Forward : Ground Speed Congratulations on making a smart purchase . 1st 1.1 ( MPH ) : Your new Craftsman Â® product is designed 2nd 1.4 and manufactured for years of dependable 3rd 2.2 operation . But like all products , it may require 4th 3.4 repair from time to time . That's when having 5th 4.3 a Repair Protection Agreement can save you 6th 5.5 money and aggravation . Reverse : 1.7 Purchase a Repair Protection Agreement Charging System : 3 Amps Battery now and protect yourself from unexpected 5 Amps Headlights hassle and expense . Battery : Amp / Hr : 28 Here's what's included in the Agreement : Min . CCA : 230 â¢ Expert service by our 12,000 profesional Case Size : U1R repair specialists . â¢ Unlimited service and nochargefor parts Blade Bolt Torque : 45 - 55 Ft . Lbs . and labor on all covered repairs . â¢ Product replacement if your covered CONGRATULATIONS on your purchase of a product can't be fixed . new tractor . It has been designed , engineered â¢ Discount of 10 % from regular price of ser - and manufactured to give you the best possible vice and service - related parts not covered dependability and performance . by the agreement ; also , 10 % off regular Should you experience any problem you price of preventive maintenance check . cannot easily remedy , please contact a Sears â¢ Fast help by phone - phone support or other qualified service center . We have from a Sears representative on products competent , well - trained representatives requiring in - home repair , plus convenient and the proper tools to service or repair repair scheduling . this tractor . Please read and retain this manual . The Once you purchase the Agreement , a simple phone call is all that it takes for you instructions will enable you to assemble and maintain your tractor properly . Always to schedule service . You can call anytime observe the " SAFETY RULES " . day or night , or schedule a service appoint - ment online . CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES Sears has over 12,000 professional repair â¢ Read and observe the safety rules . specialists , who have access to over 4.5 â¢ Follow a regular schedule in maintaining , million quality parts and accessories . That's caring for and using your tractor . the kind of professionalism you can count on â¢ Follow the instructions under " Mainte - to help prolong the life of your new purchase nance " and " Storage " sections of this for years to come . Purchase your Repair owner's manual . Protection Agreement today ! d _ IbWARNING : This tractor is equipped with Some limitations and exclusions apply . an interna ! combustion engine and should For prices and additional information call not be used on or near any unimproved 1 - 800 = 827 = 6655 . forest - covered , brush - covered or grass - SEARS INSTALLATION SERVICE covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester For Sears professional installation of home meeting applicable local or state laws ( if appliances , garage door openers , water any ) . If a spark arrester is used , it should heaters , and other major home items , in the be maintained in effective working order by U . S . A . call 1 - 800 = 4 - MY = HOME Â® the operator . 6 Page: 7

6 . Lower seat into operating position and NOTE : You may now roll your tractor off sit in seat . the skid . Follow the appropriate instruction below to remove the tractor from the skid . 7 . Slide seat until a comfortable position is reached which allows you to press WARNING : Before starting , read , un - clutch / brake pedal all the way down . derstand and follow all instructions in the 8 . Get off seat without moving its adjusted Operation section of this manual . Be sure position . tractor is in a well - ventilated area . Be sure 9 . Raise seat and tighten adjustment knob the area in front of tractor is clear of other securely . people and objects . TO ROLL TRACTOR OFF SKID ( See Seat Operation section for location and function of controls ) Seat 1 . Press lift lever plunger and raise attach - ment lift lever to its highest position . 2 . Release parking brake by depressing clutch / brake pedal . 3 . Place gearshift lever in neutral ( N ) posi - Bolt tion . 4 . Roll tractor forward off skid . 5 . Remove banding holding the deflector shield up against tractor . Continue with the instructions that follow . Flat Washer \ Adj Knob CHECK BATTERY 1 . Lift seat pan to raised position . NOTE : If this battery is put into service after month and year indicated on label ( label located between terminals ) charge battery for minimum of one hour at 6 - 10 amps . ( See " BATTERY " in Maintenance section of this manual for charging instructions ) . Seat Label Terminal Terminal 9 Page: 10

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE ' CHECKLIST The tires on your tractor were overinflated at the factory for shipping purposes . Correct Before you operate your new tractor , we tire pressure is important for best cutting wish to assure that you receive the best performance . performance and satisfaction from this â¢ Reduce tire pressure to PSI shown on Quality Product . tires . Please review the following checklist : _ / " All assembly instructions have been CHECK DECK LEVELNESS completed . For best cutting results , mower housing _ / " No remaining loose parts in carton . should be properly leveled . See " TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING " in the Service and _ / ' Battery is properly prepared and charged . Adjustments section of this manual . _ / " Seat is adjusted comfortably and tight - CHECK FOR PROPER POSITION ened securely . OF ALL BELTS _ / " All tires are properly inflated . ( For ship - See the figures that are shown for replac - ping purposes , the tires were overinflated ing motion and mower blade drive belts in at the factory ) . the Service and Adjustments section of this _ / " Be sure mower deck is properly leveled manual . Verify that the belts are routed side - to - side / front - to - rear for best cutting correctly . results . ( Tires must be properly inflated CHECK BRAKE SYSTEM for leveling ) . _ / " Check mower and drive belts . Be sure After you learn how to operate your tractor , check to see that the brake is operating they are routed properly around pulleys and inside all belt keepers . properly . See " TO CHECK BRAKE " in the Service and Adjustments section of this _ / " Check wiring . See that all connections manual . are still secure and wires are properly clamped . While learning howto use your tractor , pay ex - tra attention to the following important items : _ / " Engine oil is at proper level . _ / " Fue ! tank is filled with fresh , clean , regular unleaded gasoline . _ / " Become familiar with all controls , their location and function . Operate them before you start the engine . v " Be sure brake system is in safe operating condition . v " Be sure Operator Presence System and Reverse Operation System ( ROS ) are working properly ( See the Operation and Maintenance sections in this manual ) . 10 Page: 11

These symbols may appear on your tractor or in literature supplied with the product . Learn and understand their meaning . R N H L REVERSE NEUTRAL HIGH LOW CHOKE FAST SLOW IGNITION SWITCH @ ) . @ ENGINE OFF REVERSE ENGINE ON ENGINE START PARKING BRAKE MOWER HEIGHT MOWER LiFT OPERATION SYSTEM ( ROS ) t 4 _ LIGHTS ON CRUmSE CONTROL CLUTCH / BRAKE FUEL BATTERY REVERSE FORWARD PEDAL ATTACHMENT ATTACHMENT DANGER , KEEP HANDS KEEP AREA CLEAR SLOPE HAZARDS CLUTCH DISENGAGED CLUTCH ENGAGED AND FEET AWAY ( SEE SAFETY RULES SECTION ) DANGER indicates a hazard which , if not avoided , A will result in death or serious injury . WARNING indicates a hazard which , if not avoided , & could result in death or serious injury . FREE WHEEL ( Automatic Models only ) CAUTION indicates a hazard which , if not avoided , & might result in minor or moderate injury . CAUTION when used without the alert symbol , indicates a situation that could result in damage to the tractor and / or engine . Failure to follow instructions HOT SURFACES indicates a hazard which , could result in serious injury or if not avoided , could result in death , serious injury death . The safety alert symbol and / or property damage . is used to identify safety inform - FiRE indicates a hazard which , if not avoided , ation about hazards which can could result in death , serious injury and / or result in death , serious injury property damage . and / or property damage . 11 Page: 12

TO ADJUST MOWER CUTTING HEIGHT OPERATING IN REVERSE The position of the attachment lift lever Your tractor is equipped with a Reverse Operation System ( ROS ) . Any attempt by determines the cutting height . the operator to travel in the reverse direc - â¢ Grasp lift lever . tion with the attachment clutch engaged will â¢ Press plunger with thumb and move lever shut off the engine unless the ignition key is to desired position . placed in the ROS " ON " position . The cutting height range is approximately 1 - 1 / 2 to 4 " . The heights are measured from _ IWARNING : Backing up with the at - the ground to the blade tip with the engine tachment clutch engaged while mowing is not running . These heights are approximate strongly discouraged . Turning the ROS " ON " , and may vary depending upon soil condi - to allow reverse operation with the attach - tions , height of grass and types of grass ment clutch engaged , should only be done being mowed . when the operator decides it is necessary to â¢ The average lawn should be cut to ap - reposition the machine with the attachment proximately 2 - 1 / 2 inches during the cool engaged . Do riot mow in reverse unless season and to over 3 inches during hot absolutely necessary . months . For healthier and better looking USING THE REVERSE OPERATION lawns , mow often and after moderate SYSTEM - growth . 1 . Depress clutch / brake pedal all the way â¢ For best cutting performance , grass over down and hold . 6 inches in height should be mowed 2 . With engine running , turn ignition key twice . Make the first cut relatively high ; counterclockwise to ROS " ON " posi - the second to desired height . tion . TO OPERATE MOWER 3 . Look down and behind before and while Your tractor is equipped with an operator backing up . presence sensing switch . Any attempt 4 . Move gear shift lever to reverse ( R ) by the operator to leave the seat with the position and slowly release clutch / brake engine running and the attachment clutch pedal to start movement . engaged will shut off the engine . You must 5 . When use of the ROS is no longer remain fully and centrally positioned in the needed , turn the ignition key clockwise seat to prevent the engine from hesitating or to engine " ON " position . cutting off when operating your equipment ROS " ON " Position on rough , rolling terrain or hills . Engine " ON " Position 1 . Select desired height of cut . ( Normal Operating ) 2 . Start mower blades by engaging attach - ment clutch control . TO STOP MOWER BLADES â¢ disengage attachment clutch control . _ I , CAUTION : Do not operate the mower without either the entire grass catcher , on mowers so equipped , or the deflector shield in place . Attachment Lift High Position Attachment f Clutch Lever , , " , _ - - - Low " Engaged ' , , ( / Position " Disengag Position \ Shield / / / 14 Page: 15

TO OPERATE ON HILLS BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE CHECK ENGINE OIL LEVEL _ WARNING : Do not drive up or down hills with slopes greater than 15 Â° and do not The engine in your tractor has been shipped , drive across any slope . Use the slope guide from the factory , already filled with summer at the back of this manual . weight oil . â¢ Choose the slowest speed before starting 1 . Check engine oil with tractor on level up or down hills . ground . â¢ Avoid stopping orchanging speed on hills . 2 . Remove oil fill cap / dipstick and wipe â¢ If stopping is absolutely necessary , push clean , reinsert the dipstick and screw cap clutch / brake pedal quickly to brake posi - tight , wait for a few seconds , remove and tion and engage parking brake . read oil level . If necessary , add oil until â¢ Move gearshift leverto 1st gear . Be sure " FULl " mark on dipstick is reached . Do not overfill . you have allowed room for tractor to roll slightly as you restart movement . â¢ For cold weather operation you should â¢ To restart movement , slowly release park - change oil for easier starting ( See the ing brake and clutch / brake pedal . oil viscosity chart in the Maintenance â¢ Make all turns slowly . section of this manual ) . â¢ To change engine oil , see the Mainte - TO TRANSPORT nance section in this manual . â¢ Raise attachment lift to highest position with attachment lift control . ADD GASOLINE â¢ When pushing or towing your tractor , be â¢ Fill fuel tank to bottom of filler neck . Do sure gearshift lever is in neutral ( N ) position . not overfill . Use fresh , clean , regular â¢ Do not push or tow tractor at more than unleaded gasoline with a minimum of five ( 5 ) M PH . 87 octane . ( Use of leaded gasoline will NOTE : To protect hood from damage when increase carbon and lead oxide deposits transporting your tractor on a truck or a trailer , and reduce valve life ) . Do not mix oil with be sure hood is closed and secured to tractor . gasoline . Purchase fuel in quantities that Use an appropriate means of tying hood to can be used within 30 days to assure fuel tractor ( rope , cord , etc . ) . freshness . _ I , CAUTION : Wipe off any spilled oil or TOWING CARTS AND OTHER ATTACH - MENTS fuel . Do not store , spill or use gasoline near an open flame . Tow only the attachments that are recom - IMPORTANT : When operating in tem - mended by and comply with specifications peratures below32 Â° F ( 0 Â° C ) , use fresh , clean of the manufacturer of your tractor . Use winter grade gasoline to help insure good common sense when towing . Too heavy of cold weather starting . a load , while on a slope , is dangerous . Tires can lose traction with the ground and cause CAUTION : Alcohol blended fuels ( called you to lose control of your tractor . gasohol or using ethanol or methanol ) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation ofacids during storage . Acidic gas can damagethe fuel system of an engine while in storage . To avoid engine problems , the fuel system should be emptied before storage of 30 days or longer . Drain the gas tank , start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and carburetor are empty . Use fresh fuel next season . See Storage Instructions for additional information . Never use engine or carburetor cleaner products in the fuel tank or permanent damage may occur . 15 Page: 16

TO START ENGINE MOWING TiPS When starting the engine for the first time or â¢ Mower should be properly leveled for best if the engine has run out of fuel , it will take mowing performance . See " TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING " in the Service and extra cranking time to move fuel from the tank to the engine . Adjustments section of this manual . â¢ The left hand side of mower should be 1 . Sit on seat in operating position , depress clutch / brake pedal and set parking used for trimming . brake . â¢ Drive sothat clippings are discharged onto 2 . Place gear shift lever in neutral position . the area that has already been cut . Have 3 . Move attachment clutch to disengaged the cut area to the right ofthe tractor . This will result in a more even distribution of position . 4 . Move throttle control to choke position . clippings and more uniform cutting . NOTE : Before starting , read the warm and â¢ When mowing large areas , start byturning cold starting procedures below . to the right so that clippings will discharge 5 . Insert key into ignition and turn key away from shrubs , fences , driveways , clockwise to start position and release etc . After one or two rounds , mow in the key as soon as engine starts . Do not run opposite direction making left hand turns until finished . starter continuously for more than fifteen seconds per minute . If the engine does / * not start after several attempts , move throttle control to fast position , wait a few minutes and try again . If engine still does not start , move the throttle control back to the choke position and retry . WARM WEATH ER STARTI N G ( 50 Â° F & above ) 6 . When engine starts , move the throttle control to the fast position . 00272 â¢ The attachments and ground drive can now be used . If the engine does not â¢ If grass is extremely tall , it should be accept the load , restart the engine and mowed twice to reduce load and possible allow it to warm up for one minute using fire hazard from dried clippings . Make the choke as described above . first cut relatively high ; the second to the desired height . COLD WEATHER STARTI N G ( 50 Â° F & below ) â¢ Do not mow grass when it is wet . Wet 7 . When engine starts , leave throttle control grass will plug mower and leave undesir - in choke position until engine warms up able clumps . Allow grass to dry before and begins to run roughly . Once rough mowing . running begins , immediately move the â¢ Always operate engine at full throttle throttle control to the fast position . Engine when mowing to assure better mow - warm - up maytake from several seconds ing performance and proper discharge to several minutes ( the colder the tem - of material . Regulate ground speed by perature , the longer the warm - up ) . selecting a low enough gear to give the â¢ The attachments can also be used during mower cutting performance as well as the the engine warm - up period . quality of cut desired . NOTE : If at a high altitude ( above 3000 â¢ When operating attachments , select a feet ) or in cold temperatures ( below 32 F ) ground speed that will suit the terrain and the carburetor fuel mixture may need to be give best performance of the attachment adjusted for best engine performance ( see being used . " TO ADJUST CARBURETOR " in the Service and Adjustments section of this manual ) . 16 Page: 17

TRACTOR â¢ When the engine is running with the ignition switch in the ROS " ON " position and the Always observe safety rules when perform - attachment clutch is engaged , any attempt ing any maintenance . by the operator to shift into reverse should BRAKE OPERATION NOT shut off the engine . If tractor requires more than five ( 5 ) feet to BLADE CARE stop at highest speed in highest gear on a For best results mower blades must be kept level , dry concrete or paved surface , then sharp . Replace bent or damaged blades . brake must be checked and adjusted . ( See & CAUTION : Use only a replacement " TO CHECK BRAKE " in the Service and blade approved by the manufacturer of your Adjustments section of this manual ) . tractor . Using a blade not approved by the TIRES manufacturer of your tractor is hazardous , â¢ Maintain proper air pressure in all tires could damage your tractor and void your ( See sides of tire for proper PSI ) . warranty . â¢ Keep tires free of gasoline , oil , or insect control chemicals which can harm rubber . BLADE REMOVAL â¢ Avoid stumps , stones , deep ruts , sharp 1 . Raise mower to highest position to allow access to blades . objects and other hazards that may cause tire damage . 2 . Remove blade bolt , lock washer and flat NOTE : To seal tire punctures and prevent flat washer securing blade . 3 . Install new or resharpened blade with tires dueto slow leaks , tire sealant may be pur - trailing edge up towards deck as shown . chased from your local parts dealer . Tire seal - IMPORTANT : To ensure proper assembly , ant also prevents tire dry rot and corrosion . center hole in blade must align with star on OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM AND mandrel assembly . REVERSE OPERATION SYSTEM ( ROS ) 4 . Reassemble blade bolt , Iock washer and Be sure operator presence and reverse flat washer in exact order as shown . operation systems are working properly . If 5 . Tighten blade bolt securely ( 45 - 55 Ft . your tractor does not function as described , Lbs . torque ) . repair the problem immediately . MANDREL ASSEMBLY â¢ The engine should not start unless the brake pedal is fully depressed , and the attachment clutch control is in the disen - BLADE gaged position . CHECK OPERATOR PRESENCE SYSTEM â¢ When the engine is running , any attempt CENTER by the operator to leave the seat without HOLE / / first setting the parking brake should shut off the engine . _ BLADE BOLT â¢ When the engine is running and the at - tachment clutch is engaged , any attempt ( SPECIA _ by the operator to leave the seat should IMPORTANT : Blade bolt is heat treated . If shut off the engine . bolt needs replacing , replace only with ap - â¢ The attachment clutch should never oper - prove bolt shown in the Repair Parts . ate unless the operator is in the seat . BATTERY CHECK REVERSE OPERATION ( ROS ) Your tractor has a battery charging system SYSTEM which is sufficient for normal use . However , When the engine is running with the ignition periodic charging of the battery with an au - switch in the engine " ON " position and the tomotive charger will extend its life . attachment clutch is engaged , any attempt â¢ Keep battery and terminals clean . by the operator to go into reverse should â¢ Keep battery bolts tight . shut off the engine . â¢ Keep small vent holes open . â¢ Recharge at 6 - 10 amperes for 1 hour . NOTE : The original equipment battery on your tractor is maintenance free . Do not attempt to open or remove caps or covers . Adding or checking level of electrolyte is ENGINE " ON " POSITION 18 not necessary . ( NORMAL OPERATING ) Page: 19

CLEANING AIR FILTER â¢ Clean engine , battery , seat , finish , etc . of Your engine will not run properly using a dirty all foreign matter . air filter . Replace pre - cleaner after every 25 â¢ Keep finished surfaces and wheels free hours of operation or every season . Service of all gasoline , oil , etc . paper cartridge every 100 hours of operation â¢ Protect painted surfaces with automotive or every season , whichever occurs first . type wax . Service air cleaner more often under dusty conditions . We do not recommend using a garden hose or pressure washer to clean your tractor 1 . Pull up on air filter cover handle and rotate towards engine . unless the engine and transmission are 2 . Remove cover . covered to keep water out . Water in engine or transmission will shorten the useful life of 3 . Carefully remove air filter cartridge and your tractor . Use compressed air or a leaf pre - cleaner from base . blower to remove grass , leaves and trash 4 . Clean base carefully to prevent debris from tractor and mower . from falling into carburetor . NOTE : If very dirty or damaged , replace MUFFLER cartridge . Inspect and replace corroded muffler and 5 . Place new pre - cleaner and cartridge spark arrester ( if equipped ) as it could create firmly in base . a fire hazard and / or damage . 6 . Align tabs on cover with slots in blower SPARK PLUG ( S ) housing and replace cover . 7 . Hook handle on cover and push down Replace spark plug ( s ) at the beginning of on handle to close . each mowing season or after every 100 hours of operation , whichever occurs first . IMPORTANT : Petroleum solvents , such as Spark plug type and gap setting are shown kerosene , are not to be used to clean the in " PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS " section cartridge . They may cause deterioration of of this manual . the cartridge . Do not oil cartridge . Do not CLEAN AIR SCREEN use pressurized air to clean cartridge . Air screen must be kept free of dirt and chaff to prevent engine damage from overheating . Clean with a wire brush or compressed airto remove dirt and stubborn dried gum fibers . ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM Debris may clog the engine's air cooling system . Remove blower housing and clean area shown to prevent overheating and engine damage . Clean out chaff and debris Air Screen Cartridge Tabs " - Slots _ 02744 20 Page: 21

TO LEVEL MOWER HOUSING â¢ To raise front of mower , loosen nut " F " from trunnion on both front links . Tighten nut Adjust the mower while tractor is parked on level ground or driveway . Make suretires are " E " on both front links an equal number of turns . The two front links must remain properly inflated ( See side of tire for proper PSI ) . If tires are over or undefinflated , you equal in length . will not properly adjust your mower . â¢ When distance " D " is 1 / 8 " to 1 / 2 " lower SIDE - TO - SIDE ADJUSTMENT at front than rear , tighten nut " F " against trunnion on both front links . â¢ Raise mower to its highest position . â¢ At the midpoint of both sides of mower , â¢ Recheck side - to - side adjustment . measure height from bottom edge of mower to ground . Distance ' _ ' on both sides of mower should be the same or within 1 / 4 " of each other . â¢ If adjustment is necessary , make adjust - ment on one side of mower only . â¢ To raise one side of mower , tighten lift link Both Front Links Should be Equal in Length adjustment nut on that side . â¢ To lower one side of mower , loosen lift link adjustment nut on that side . j j . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NOTE : Each full turn of adjustment nut will change mower height about 1 / 8 " . â¢ Recheck measurements after adjusting . FRONT - TO - BACK ADJUSTMENT Bottom edge Bottom edgeto of mower to . . . . . of mower Nut ore . n , , ore . n , , Trunnion Aq - \ JWA Suspension Arm Front Links Lift Link _ " < ; . , . . . . . . . . . . ; . , 77 Adjustment N TO CHECK BRAKE IMPORTANT : Deck must be level side - to If tractor requires more than five ( 5 ) feet to side . If the following front - to - back adjust - stop at highest speed in highest gear on a ment is necessary , be sure to adjust both level , dry concrete or paved surface , then front links equally so mower will stay level brake must be serviced . side - to - side . You may also check brake by : To obtain the best cutting results , the mower 1 . Park tractor on a level , dry concrete or housing should be adjusted so that the front is paved surface , depress clutch / brake approximately 1 / 8 " to 1 / 2 " lower than the rear pedal all the way down and engage when the mower is in its highest position . parking brake . Check adjustment on right side of tractor . 2 . Place gear shift lever in neutral position . Measure distance " D " directly in front and The rear wheels must lock and skid when behind the mandrel at bottom edge of mower you try to manually push the tractor forward . housing as shown . If the rear wheels rotate , then the brake â¢ Before making any necessary adjust - needs to be serviced . Contact a Sears or ments , check that both front links are equal other qualified service center . in length . â¢ If links are not equal in length , adjust one link to same length as other link . â¢ To lower front of mower loosen nut " E " on both front links an equal number of turns . â¢ When distance " D " is 1 / 8 " to 1 / 2 " lower at front than rear , tighten nuts " F " against trunnion on both front links . 22 Page: 23

REPLACING BATTERY TO REPLACE FUSE Replace with 20 amp automotive - type plug - _ , WARNING : Do not short battery termi - in fuse . The fuse holder is located behind nals by allowing a wrench or any other object the dash . to contact both terminals at the same time . Before connecting battery , remove metal TO REMOVE HOOD AND GRILL AS = bracelets , wristwatch bands , rings , etc . SEMBLY Positive terminal must be connected first to 1 . Raise hood . prevent sparking from accidental grounding . 2 . Unsnap headlight wire connector . 1 . Lift seat pan to raised position . 3 . Stand in front of tractor . Grasp hood at 2 . Disconnect BLACK battery cable first sides , tilt toward engine and lift off of then RED battery cable and carefully tractor . remove battery from tractor . 4 . When replacing hood , be sure to recon - 3 . install newbatterywithterminals in same nect the headlight wire connector . position as old battery . 4 . First connect RED battery cable to posi - tive ( + ) terminal with hex bolt and keps , Hood nut as shown . Tighten securely . Slide terminal cover over terminal 5 . Connect BLACK grounding cable to negative ( - ) terminal with remaining hex Headlight Wire bolt and keps nut . Tighten securely . Connector Seat Label Terminal Nut Hex ENGINE Bolt TO ADJUST THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE Positive The throttle control has been preset at ( Red ) the factory and adjustment should not be Cable Negative ( Black ) necessary Check adjustment as described Cable below before loosening cable . If adjustment TO REPLACE HEADLIGHT BULB is necessary , see engine manual . 1 . Raise hood . TO ADJUST CHOKE CONTROL 2 . Pull bulb holder out of the hole in the The choke control has been preset at backside of the grill . the factory and adjustment should not be 3 . Replace bulb in holder and push bulb necessary . If adjustment is necessary , see holder securely back into the hole in the engine manual . backside of the grill . TO ADJUST CARBURETOR 4 . Close hood . Your carburetor has been preset at the factory INTERLOCKS AND RELAYS and adjustment should not be necessary . Loose or damaged wiring may cause your However , minor adjustment may be required tractor to run poorly , stop running , or prevent to compensate for differences in fuel , tem - it from starting . perature , altitude or load . If the engine does â¢ Check wiring . See electrical wiring dia - need adjustment , see engine manual . gram in the Repair Parts manual . 25 Page: 26

Im mediately prepare you r tractor for storage ENGINE at the end of the season or if the tractor will FUEL SYSTEM not be used for 30 days or more . IMPORTANT : It is important to prevent _ i _ WARNING : Never store the tractor with gum deposits from forming in essential fuel gasoline in the tank inside a building where system parts such as carburetor , fuel hose , fumes may reach an open flame or spark . ortank during storage . Also , alcohol blended Allow the engine to cool before storing in fuels ( called gasohol or using ethanol or any enclosure . methanol ) can attract moisture which leads to separation and formation of acids during TRACTOR storage . Acidic gas can damage the fuel Remove mower from tractor for winter system of an engine while in storage . storage . When mower is to be stored for a â¢ Empty the fuel tank by starting the engine period of time , clean it thoroughly , remove and letting it run until the fuel lines and all dirt , grease , leaves , etc . Store in a clean , carburetor are empty . dry area . â¢ Never use engine or carburetor cleaner 1 . Clean entire tractor ( See " CLEANING " products in the fuel tank or permanent in the Maintenance section of this damage may occur . manual ) . â¢ Use fresh fuel next season . 2 . Inspect and replace belts , if necessary NOTE : Fuel stabilizer is an acceptable al - ( See belt replacement instructions in the ternative in minimizing the formation of fuel Service and Adjustments section of this gum deposits during storage . Add stabilizer manual ) . to gasoline in fuel tank or storage container . 3 . Lubricate as shown in the Maintenance Always follow the mix ratio found on stabilizer section of this manual . container . Run engine at least 10 minutes 4 . Be sure that all nuts , bolts and screws after adding stabilizer to allow the stabilizer to are securely fastened . Inspect moving reach the carburetor . Do not empty the gas parts for damage , breakage and wear . tank and carburetor if using fuel stabilizer . Replace if necessary . ENGINE OIL 5 . Touch up all rusted or chipped paint Drain oil ( with engine warm ) and replace surfaces ; sand lightly before painting . with clean engine oil . ( See " ENGINE " in the BATTERY Maintenance section of this manual ) . â¢ Fully charge the battery for storage . CYMNDER ( S ) â¢ After a period of time in storage , battery 1 . Remove spark plug ( s ) . may require recharging . 2 . Pour one ounce of oil through spark plug â¢ To help prevent corrosion and power leak - hole ( s ) into cylinder ( s ) . age during long periods of storage , battery 3 . Turn ignition key to " START " position for cables should be disconnected and bat - a few seconds to distribute oil , tery cleaned thoroughly ( see " TO CLEAN 4 . Replace with new spark plug ( s ) . BATTERY AND TERMINALS " in the OTHER Maintenance section of this manual ) . â¢ Do not store gasoline from one season to â¢ After cleaning , leave cables disconnected another . and place cables where they cannot come in contact with battery terminals . â¢ Replace your gasoline can if your can starts to rust . Rust and / or dirt in your â¢ If battery is removed from tractor for gasoline will cause problems . storage , do not store battery directly on concrete or damp surfaces . â¢ If possible , store your tractor indoors and cover it to give protection from dust and dirt . â¢ Cover your tractor with a suitable protec - tive cover that does not retain moisture . Do not use plastic . Plastic cannot breathe which allows condensation to form and will cause your tractor to rust . IMPORTANT : Never cover tractor while engine and exhaust areas are still warm . 26 Page: 27

SUGGESTED GUIDE FOR SIGHTING SLOPES FOR SAFE OPERATION ONLY RIDE UP AND DOWN HILL , NOT ACROSS HILL _ t , = = 03 15 DEGREES MAX . down the face of slopes , never across the face . Do not mow _ i ARNING : To avoid serious injury , operate your tractor up and slopes greater than 15 degrees . Make turns gradually to prevent tipping or loss of control . Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on slopes . 1 . Fold this page along dotted line indicated above . 2 . Hold page before you so that its left edge is vertically parallel to a tree trunk or other upright structure . 3 . Sight across the fold in the direction of hill slope you want to measure . 4 . Compare the angle of the fold with the slope of the hill . Page: 32